I couldn't understand Adrian. I glanced at Eric to see if he understood. His eyes had darkened. I cleared my throat and said, "Alpha Wade, please excuse us."

He nodded, noticing the rising tension between the two men. I linked arms with Eric and pulled him away. As we passed Adrian, he looked at me—a look I couldn't decipher. What did he mean by "assistance and possession"? Was it about my brother's throne? Eric was family; he wouldn't betray my brother.

"This man's getting on my nerves," Eric muttered, clenching his fist. I patted his hand. "Calm down. He did that intentionally. Reacting only benefits him."

He sighed, turning to me. "If you want me to calm down, I will." His words stunned me. He placed his palm over mine. I lowered my head to look at our hands. "Eric, I—"

"May I have your attention, please?"

The speaker's voice interrupted. I realized I shouldn't discuss Jason's proposal with Eric. Continuing would only cause problems.

"Please have your seats. We will start the conference soon."

Eric guided me to a table labeled 'Blue Blood Pack.' We found Damia and our managers and brought them to our table. Eric pulled out a chair for me. "Thank you," I said, smiling.

"Mention not," he replied, sitting beside me with Damia on my other side.

The conference began. Alpha Wade presented his demands on the projector.

"As you all know, my brother is the new Alpha of the Storm Forest Pack. I want to offer him a deal to help him rule smoothly and ensure his success. Please applaud our head Alpha, Seth Campbell."

Everyone applauded as Seth Campbell entered. He was a humble man in his early thirties, and the resemblance to his brother was clear.

"I thank you all for attending. As pack leader, I can ensure that friendship between packs is the only reason behind this deal."

More applause followed. His beta gestured for him to sit.

I anxiously awaited the announcement; this deal was crucial. My gaze drifted to the Crystal Blood Pack's table, one behind ours. Adrian met my eyes. Why are you looking at me, Adrian? What are you planning? I thought. He didn't break eye contact, which annoyed me. Bet Patric, sitting with him, glanced between Adrian and me. I looked away and focused on the stage.

After Alpha Wade's discussion, it was time for the announcement. I pursed my lips. Eric held my hand. "Don't be nervous. You'll get the deal."

"I don't know. I feel uneasy."

"Relax, Natalia."

I took a deep breath. Alpha Wade smiled politely at the tables. "And the deal goes to…" He paused. I closed my eyes, praying. My family had shown me great faith, and my brother believed in my ability to help him.

My thoughts raced. Then, Alpha Wade's words froze me.

"The deal goes to the Crystal Blood Pack."

Eric's grip loosened. My jaw dropped.

How could this be?

"Adrian, would you please take the stage?" Alpha Wade said sharply.

Applause erupted. Adrian rose, and as he passed, he smirked at me before taking the stage, leaving me utterly bewildered.

(Note: The FindNovel.net advertisement has been removed.)